It's difficult to make lineup changes when you're already relying on backups, so I don't expect any demotions. The Vikings have lost a few significant players through five weeks, including running back Adrian Peterson, tight end Kyle Rudolph, linebacker Chad Greenway, right guard Brandon Fusco and possibly safety Harrison Smith. When you look at the roster, there aren't many places where you can necessarily say a change would be an upgrade.
The one possible position is at strong safety, where head coach Mike Zimmer was honest about Robert Blanton's performance this season, "He can be better." Before everyone grabs their pitchforks on Twitter, demanding for Andrew Sendejo to start at strong safety, Smith's status is unknown at this point for Sunday's matchup against the Lions. He was on crutches and in a walking boot on Friday, the day after the Packers game. Sendejo, who has only received two snaps at safety this season, would start at free safety and the Vikings would stick with Blanton if Smith can't play.
…On a side note that deals a little with lineup changes, some have suggested that Zimmer should simplify his defense after allowing 42 points to the Packers. I highly doubt Zimmer will make such a drastic move to alter his scheme in his first season as head coach. This is the year he must set the foundation for his defensive scheme. There are changes teams make weekly to properly prepare for opponents but altering the scheme at this point of Zimmer's tenure would not be a smart move. It takes time to get players not only acclimated to a scheme but also for a franchise to bring in the right personnel over a period of time. I think it's very narrow-minded to blame the inconsistency on defense to the complexity of the scheme. I don't think head coaches and defensive coordinator design plays where receivers and tight ends are running down the field unaccounted for.
I'm really not sure. Just a guess though, I'd be surprised if he does play. He still seems to be coping with pain from the rib injury. Greenway said it's hard to do small things like laugh, cough and sneeze. The long break should help with the recovery process because Greenway needs time more than anything else to heal. He was pretty emphatic that he couldn't play even if the Packers game was slated on a Sunday. Given the severity of the injury, he may need a little more time.
It's been difficult trying to get a feel for all four teams. The Vikings and Bears are tied for last at 2-3, while the Packers and Lions sit atop the division at 3-2. Each team has its fair share of flaws, which could make for an interesting race up to the final game of the season.
The biggest surprise has been the Lions defense. They've always had a good front four, but they're currently first in total defense allowing 282.4 yards a game. They're second in points allowed as well, allowing 15.8 points a game. I'm not sure anyone expected that.
Thankfully, no. What happens in Green Bay for a 22-hour period, stays in Green Bay.
Though our deputy sports editor, Chris Carr, made this visual, and it's…yeah, it's something.
